Podcast
Mark's Money Mind
Hosted by Mark Trautman · EN
This educational personal finance show combines money lessons, timely topics, personal stories, and community wisdom to help listeners and viewers master their finances to enjoy a stress free life of financial freedom.
13episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Travel Card Rewards and EconoMe Conference | Episode 064
Mar 3000:37:28Tap to summarizeEpisode Summary Mark recaps his experience at the EconoMe Conference in Cincinnati and does a deep dive into travel credit card rewards and point redemptions, inspired by a breakout session from his friend Charmaree. Topics Covered EconoMe Conference recap — A 3-day Financial Independence/Retire Early (FI/RE) event in Cincinnati, founded by Diania Merriam. Features main stage presentations and afternoon breakout sessions. This was the 6th year. Travel card rewards & redemptions — Key takeaways from Charmaree's breakout session and the 10xTravel.com course: Always pay cards off in full monthly — don't spend just to earn points Signup bonuses are the real value, not ongoing category multipliers Focus on cards with transferable points (Chase Ultimate Rewards, Capital One, Amex, Bilt, Citi) — keep points at the bank and transfer only when needed Award flight search strategy: Find who flies the route, check alliance partners one by one for lower redemption rates (aggregators like PointsYeah.com and Point.me don't always show every option) Chase 5/24 rule: Chase won't approve a new card if you've opened 5+ cards across all issuers in the last 24 months Southwest Companion Pass: Requires ~130,000 points earned on card or flights; signup bonuses count toward this Two Player Mode: Couples or travel partners coordinating card strategies together When to close cards: Wait until the 13th month (after the annual fee posts) to cancel and get the fee refunded 10xTravel.com website overview — Free course and dashboard for managing the points game: My Wallet: Track all credit cards, open and closed, spending requirements, and signup bonuses My Points: Track rewards balances across airlines, hotels, and flexible currency programs My Next Card: Personalized recommendation for your next best card based on your current portfolio and 5/24 status My Credit Score: Track your FICO score (free via Experian — not the estimate from your bank) Dashboard: Consolidated view of cards, total points, annual fees, upcoming fee due dates, spending requirements, and travel goals Upcoming events: EconoMe Conference 2027 — March 19–21; FinTalks Alaska cruise Links & Resources Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel EconoMe Conference YouTube Channel 10X Travel Free Course EconoMe Conference website Experian (free FICO score) Timestamps 00:26 Inside EconoMe Conference 02:35 Talks and Breakouts Format 05:29 Charmaree’s Travel Rewards Session 07:22 Credit Card Rules First 08:41 10X Travel 10:42 Big Takeaways Signup Bonuses 12:57 Transferable Points Strategy 15:04 Smarter Award Flight Searches 19:50 Chase 5/24 and Next Card 21:32 Southwest Companion Pass 22:52 Two Player Mode and Closing Cards 24:33 Website Dashboard and Wallet 27:12 Tracking Points and Credit Score 28:51 Next Card Recommendations Tool 35:32 Wrap Up Disclaimer: This show is for education and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered investment, tax, or legal advice.
Transcribe →Taxes, Travel, and Market Turbulence | Episode 063
Mar 1700:43:20Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Mark shares updates from a CampFI trip to New York City and discusses tax filing season after doing a year-end Roth conversion. He explains the benefits of filing Form 2210 Schedule AI (Annualized Income Installment Method) to reduce underpayment penalties for uneven income, then describes filing an amended return (Form 1040-X) after receiving a corrected 1099-INT. Mark also covers 2026 travel planning, discusses an app he uses for organizing reservations, and recounts mistakes confusing MAR vs MAY that led to rebooking flights and hotels, plus higher May hotel costs in Vancouver and using Hyatt points. Finally, he reflects on market volatility and retirement spending, describing a “bucketing” style approach with about 10 years of expenses in cash and treasuries, delaying Social Security to 70, considering a SPIA, and advising younger investors to embrace volatility. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel TripIt Travel Organizer Amberly Grant FinTalks Travel & Events FI Friends Travel The Retirement and IRA Show The Retirement Answer Man The Retirement Manifesto - Retirement Bucket Strategy Timestamps: 00:34 CampFI NYC Recap 01:06 Roth Conversion Taxes 05:32 Form 2210 Explained 08:27 Corrected 1099 Surprise 09:59 Amending Your Return 12:29 Travel Planning Tools 13:57 MAR vs MAY Mistake 14:45 Cruise Status Strategy 18:33 Portal Booking Headaches 22:57 Vancouver Hotel Sticker Shock 25:26 More Trip Changes 27:06 Airfare and Oil Prices 29:12 Market Volatility Thoughts 31:33 Distribution Bucket Strategy 40:12 Advice for Accumulators
Transcribe →Financial Accounts Simplified, Streamlined and Organized | Episode 062
Feb 1700:28:13Tap to summarizeIn this episode Mark explains how he would streamline and organize financial accounts if starting from scratch, especially to simplify finances for himself and loved ones. He outlines an eight step plan including: a main cash management account, an optional local checking account, a separate online savings account for goal “bucketing,” two no-fee credit cards at different institutions, a taxable brokerage account, retirement accounts (Roth IRA and/or traditional IRA), a Health Savings Account (HSA) and an optional donor-advised fund. Mark closes by noting he personally keeps multiple accounts and cards for research and travel rewards but would otherwise consolidate primarily at one favored institution. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Fidelity Cash Management Account Ally Bank American Express Blue Cash Everyday card Chase Freedom cards Citi DoubleCash card Discover It card Fidelity Brokerage account Fidelity Retirement accounts Fidelity Health Savings Account (HSA) Fidelity Charitable (Donor Advised Fund) Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome to Mark’s Money Mind + Why Streamlining Accounts Matters 02:11 Step 1: Your Main Cash Management Hub 04:11 Step 2: Local Branch Access Without Big-Bank Fees 08:25 Step 3: Online Savings for Goals & Emergency Fund 10:40 Step 4: Keep Spending Simple & Protected with 2 No-Fee Credit Cards 13:47 Step 5: Taxable Brokerage Account for Investing Beyond Retirement 14:24 Step 6: IRAs at One Custodian + Roth Rules & the 5-Year Clock 20:21 Step 7: Add an HSA If You’re Eligible 22:13 Step 8: Donor-Advised Fund for Tax-Smart Giving 23:57 Recap: The 8-Step Setup + Final Thoughts
Transcribe →Navigating the New Credit Card Rewards Landscape | Episode 061
Feb 900:56:07Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Mark discusses his recent hiatus from the podcast during a Caribbean trip and shares insights on maximizing credit card rewards. He provides a detailed breakdown of various credit card options for earning travel rewards, including the Capital One Venture X, Chase Sapphire Preferred and Reserve, and American Express Platinum cards. Mark also offers tips for beginners on building credit and using cash back cards, emphasizing the importance of paying off credit card balances in full each month to avoid interest charges. Additionally, he shares personal stories about travel adventures and how to use credit card points effectively for both domestic and international travel. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Discover Credit Cards Citi Credit Cards Chase Freedom cards Earn cash back with the Chase Freedom Unlimited or Chase Freedom Flex credit card. I can be rewarded if you apply here and are approved for the card. Chase United cards Choose any United MileagePlus® credit card that is right for you. I can be rewarded too if you apply here and are approved for the card. Chase Southwest cards You can choose any Southwest Rapid Rewards Credit Card. Earn Companion Pass® through 2/28/27 plus up to 40,000 points with a Southwest Rapid Rewards Personal Credit Card. Business owners can earn up to 80,000 points with a Southwest Rapid Rewards Business Credit Card. I can be awarded if you apply here and are approved for the card. Chase World of Hyatt Capital One Venture X If you apply using my referral link and are approved, I will get a referral bonus. Chase Sapphire Reserve or Preferred Earn 125,000 bonus points with Sapphire Reserve® or 75,000 bonus points with Sapphire Preferred®. I can be rewarded if you apply here and are approved for either card. All The Hacks podcast with Chris Hutchins Helpful Air Travel Rewards websites Point.me PointsYeah The FI Collective Timestamps: 00:25 Mark's Caribbean Adventure 01:07 Travel Challenges and Lessons Learned 02:46 Introduction to Credit Card Rewards 03:57 Building and Managing Credit 08:28 Cashback and Starter Credit Cards 11:48 Airline and Hotel Credit Cards 19:04 Capital One Venture X Card Benefits 24:55 Chase Sapphire Cards Overview 30:59 Priority Pass Lounge Access 31:11 Couponing Benefits Breakdown 31:55 Chase Card Travel and Dining Credits and Other Perks 34:53 Chase Points and Transfer Partners 37:34 Amex Platinum Card Overview 40:19 Amex Platinum Card Credits and Benefits 45:38 Booking Flights with Points 46:58 Travel Rewards Strategies and Tips 53:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Transcribe →Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 6 | Episode 060
Dec 1700:26:22Tap to summarizeUnderstanding Income Taxes & Key Financial Lessons on a Simple Index Card In the concluding episode of the six-part Financial Literacy Miniseries, the focus is on income taxes and summarizing the miniseries on an index card. The episode begins with an overview of the W-4 form, explaining its purpose for determining withholding for federal and state taxes. Mark further discusses various tax forms one might receive, such as W-2, 1099, and others, detailing what each form reports and their relevance for filing tax returns. Additionally, the episode covers basic tax filing requirements, how tax brackets work, and highlights notable tax credits including education credits. The episode wraps up the miniseries by summarizing the key financial lessons taught, down to ten key points on a simple index card. Mark ends the episode highlighting the books he will be handing out to the students this year. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Navigating Your Tax Return and The One-Page Financial Plan | Episode 006 2025 Quick Tax Reference Guide The Index Card The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins I Will Teach You To Be Rich by Ramit Sethi The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel Taking Stock by Jordan Grumet Timestamps: 00:45 Understanding the W-4 Form 02:35 Decoding the W-2 Form 05:41 Other Important Tax Documents 08:19 Filing Your Tax Return 11:20 How Tax Rates Work 13:36 Key Tax Credits Explained 16:49 The Index Card - A Summary of Financial Literacy Lessons 24:03 Recommended Financial Books _______________ As an Amazon Associate this show earns income from qualifying purchases. Affiliate links do not increase your costs, and we will only link to products or services that we are familiar with and that we feel may deliver value to you. The modest income received from affiliate links helps support the cost of running and managing this show.
Transcribe →Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 5 | Episode 059
Dec 1200:36:08Tap to summarizeProtecting Yourself from Financial Loss: Insurance, Identity Theft, and Fraud Prevention In part five of the financial literacy miniseries, Mark delves into strategies for protecting oneself from financial loss through insurance, identity theft prevention, and fraud avoidance. Mark covers the four primary risk management techniques: risk avoidance, risk reduction, risk retention, and risk transfer. He discusses various types of insurance, including health, homeowners, renters, auto, and life insurance, outlining their importance and the details of how they function. Additionally, Mark provides strategies to protect against identity theft and common fraud schemes, emphasizing vigilance in monitoring financial activities and securing personal information. The episode concludes with a preview of the final part of the miniseries, which will cover income taxes and provide a summary of the top 10 financial lessons from the miniseries in an easy-to-remember format. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel My Social Security Account Official Annual Credit Report website Experian Credit Freeze Equifax Credit Freeze TransUnion Credit Freeze Timestamps: 00:43 Understanding Risk Management 07:57 Types of Insurance 08:05 The Importance of Health Insurance 09:57 Auto and Homeowner's Insurance 12:02 Life and Disability Insurance 14:44 Special Insurance Considerations 16:37 Protecting Against Identity Theft 24:24 Common Fraud Schemes 33:54 Conclusion and Next Steps
Transcribe →Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 4 | Episode 058
Dec 600:33:13Tap to summarizeThe Power of Compounding and Understanding Credit Reports and Credit Scores In this episode, host Mark Trautman explores the topics of compounding, credit reports and credit scores. He begins with an engaging riddle that demonstrates the astonishing impact of compounding to illustrate its significance. Then using historical data and examples, Mark explains how starting early with investments can result in significant financial growth over time. Mark then transitions to the second segment, where he breaks down the intricacies of credit reports and scores. He discusses what factors influence credit scores, the importance of maintaining a good payment history and minimizing credit utilization. Mark then covers the various implications of different credit score ranges. He also provides practical advice on accessing and monitoring your credit report and credit score. This episode is part four of the financial literacy miniseries designed to help listeners improve their financial knowledge, avoid common financial pitfalls and achieve financial freedom. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Official Annual Credit Report website Timestamps: 00:42 The Power of Compounding: The Magic Penny 03:11 Real-Life Examples of Compounding 07:16 The Early Bird vs. The Procrastinator 14:40 The Impact of Investment Costs 17:41 Understanding Credit Reports 21:47 Decoding Credit Scores 30:11 Conclusion and Next Steps
Transcribe →Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 3 | Episode 057
Dec 300:26:59Tap to summarizeUnderstanding Liabilities and Calculating Net Worth In this episode, Mark continues the financial literacy miniseries by focusing on liabilities and how to calculate net worth. He explains various short-term and long-term liabilities, including credit cards, student loans, auto loans, and home mortgages. Mark emphasizes the importance of managing credit card debt and understanding the implications of student loans. Additionally, he discusses the structure of auto loans and mortgages and their impact on financial health. The episode concludes with a step-by-step guide on calculating net worth. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Federal Student Aid website Timestamps: 00:25 Recap and Today's Focus: Liabilities 01:14 Understanding Liabilities: Short-term vs Long-term 01:53 Managing Credit Card Debt 08:44 Student Loans 15:03 Auto Loans and Mortgages 21:20 Organizing Liabilities on the Net Worth Statement 21:57 Calculating and Understanding Net Worth 25:15 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview
Transcribe →Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 2 | Episode 056
Nov 2900:27:38Tap to summarizeUnderstanding Your Net Worth Statement: Assets Unveiled In this episode Mark guides listeners through the asset side of the net worth statement. Building on the last episode's discussion on tracking income and expenses with a money journal, Mark explains the importance of categorizing assets into cash and cash equivalents, investments, and use assets. He delves into the specifics of each category, offering practical advice on how to compile and assess these assets for your financial snapshot. From understanding different types of accounts to recognizing the value of personal property and investments, this episode serves as a comprehensive guide to mastering the asset side of your net worth statement. Tune in next time for the next part of the mini-series, where liabilities and calculating net worth will be discussed. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Timestamps: 01:19 Recap of Money Journal and Introduction to Net Worth Statement 03:21 Cash and Cash Equivalents 04:45 Investments Overview 06:40 Use Assets Explained 08:23 Deep Dive into Cash and Cash Equivalents 12:04 Understanding Bonds 16:43 Stocks and Their Returns 22:09 Investment Accounts: Taxable, Tax-Deferred, and Tax-Free 25:16 Conclusion and Next Steps
Transcribe →Financial Literacy Miniseries - Part 1 | Episode 055
Nov 2600:27:36Tap to summarizeKickstarting Financial Literacy: Tracking Income and Expenses In this episode Mark introduces a special miniseries aimed at the high school seniors of Crested Butte Community School. Mark outlines his plan for making financial literacy accessible through podcast episodes that parallel his classroom lessons. He delves into the key components of the first lesson: tracking income and expenses. Mark discusses setting up a ‘Money Journal,' understanding paychecks, categorizing expenses, and prioritizing savings. He emphasizes the importance of living within your means and avoiding 'lifestyle creep.' Tune in to explore actionable steps towards financial freedom and learn about tools and techniques to maintain a healthy financial life. Episode Links: Mark’s Money Mind YouTube Channel Spending Tracker App (iPhone) Spending Tracker App (Google) Timestamps: 00:25 Purpose of the Financial Literacy Miniseries 02:35 Overview of Financial Literacy Course 05:23 Lesson 1: Tracking Income and Expenses 06:01 Understanding Financial Statements 12:34 Fixed, Variable, and Periodic Expenses 14:40 Prioritizing Savings 22:19 Tools for Tracking Spending 24:32 Wrap Up
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